How does Acts 15:6 connect to Matthew 18:20 about gathering in Jesus' name? Scripture Focus Acts 15:6 – “So the apostles and elders met to examine this matter.” Matthew 18:20 – “For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.” Setting the Scene • Matthew 18 is Jesus’ direct teaching on relationships and church discipline. • Acts 15 records the Jerusalem Council, where church leaders settle the dispute about Gentile believers and the Law. • Both passages show Christ’s people coming together with Him at the center. Gathering in His Name: Matthew 18:20 • Jesus promises His personal presence whenever even a few believers unite “in My name,” signaling: – Recognition of His authority (John 14:13-14). – Submission to His Lordship (Colossians 3:17). • The promise is literal: Christ is spiritually but truly present, guiding agreement and judgment (Matthew 18:18-19). Gathering for Discernment: Acts 15:6 • The apostles and elders “met” (literally “were gathered”), not for socializing, but to seek the mind of the Lord on doctrine. • They came with: – Scripture in hand (Acts 15:15-18, quoting Amos 9). – Testimony of God’s work (Acts 15:7-12). – Prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit (Acts 15:8, 28). • The council’s unity reflects Jesus’ earlier promise: Christ was present, leading them to a Spirit-confirmed decision. The Common Thread • Intentional gathering: both passages describe purposeful meetings to honor and obey Jesus. • Christ’s promised presence: Matthew 18:20 provides the theological basis; Acts 15:6 shows the practical outworking. • Resulting agreement: – Matthew 18:19 highlights believers’ unified petitions. – Acts 15:25 records unanimous consensus, “having become of one mind.” • Divine endorsement: – Matthew 18 links agreement on earth with heavenly confirmation. – Acts 15:28 affirms, “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us.” Supporting Scriptures • John 14:26 – the Spirit brings Christ’s words to remembrance in gatherings. • 1 Corinthians 5:4 – “When you are assembled… and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 – believers are exhorted not to forsake assembling, because Christ meets them there. Practical Takeaways • Meet with expectancy: whenever believers assemble in submission to Jesus, He is literally present to guide. • Center every discussion on Scripture and the Spirit’s witness, as the Jerusalem leaders did. • Seek unity under Christ’s authority; decisions reached together in His name carry heavenly weight. • Trust that gatherings—whether “two or three” or a council of leaders—can still hear the Lord and resolve issues for His glory. |
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